East Ridge / Pool Ridge Short Loop

East Ridge / Pool Ridge Short Loop is a 3.6 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Guerneville, California that features a waterfall. The trail is rated as moderate and primarily used for hiking and trail running.

DISTANCE

3.6 miles

ELEVATION GAIN

1033 feet

ROUTE TYPE

Loop

hiking

trail running

forest

river

waterfall

no dogs

A nice, short loop that spends most of the way either gaining or losing elevation. The trail is wide, soft and well-shaded the entire way. Despite the shade, the steep (15%-ish) uphills made for warm work despite it being November and wearing shorts. There is a small waterfall as you descend the East Ridge. Cross the picnic area (or stop for lunch) before you head up a decent number of switchback on the Pool Ridge Trail. Upon reaching the ridge, the trail drops almost immediate down more switchback. While these switchback initially will appear to be taking you further north (if you're going counter-clockwise) , they eventually drop you down to a flat trail section that runs southward along a stream (only a trickle in November). This trail eventually spits you out near the Colonel Armstrong Tree, a relatively large (and old) redwood. It is also worthwhile to make the 2 minute walk to the amphitheater before taking the paved road back to the Visitor Center.